Archaeology
Cultural Heritage

By the end of this course unit, students are expected to have acquired the following competencies:

• Understanding the importance of Archaeological Heritage in the modern Information Society, in the construction of collective memory, and in the search for identity elements;

• Knowledge about the history of archaeological research in Portugal and its main figures (brief overview);

• Understanding the impact of archaeological research and initiatives for cultural enhancement and engagement;

• Acquisition of perspectives on integrated management.

Through different case studies, this course unit analyses the contribution of archaeological methods to the knowledge of Portuguese heritage, from Prehistory to Middle Ages. It introduces the criteria used, over time, to carry out research on the archaeological heritage, and to its protection, promotion and dissemination. Archaeology of cities and historical centers (Urban Archaeology) is another subject area to be addressed, due to its importance in the redevelopment of city life - a concern of many municipalities. The importance of the archaeological heritage in regional land-use and development plans is another issue to be addressed. Some paradigmatic case studies will be analised in detail, and thereby, their importance demonstrated, either at economical or social or cultural levels.

Cardoso, J. L. (2007) – Pré-História de Portugal. Lisboa: Universidade Aberta
Alarcão, J. & Barroca, M. (edts., 2012) – Dicionário de Arqueologia Portuguesa. Porto: Figueirinhas.
Specialized readings to be provided by the teacher (scientific essays, thematic proceedings, etc.).

E-learning

Evaluation is made on individual basis and it involves the coexistence of two modes: continuous assessment (60%) and final evaluation (40%). Further information is detailed in the Learning Agreement of the course unit.

The teaching and learning activities for this course unit will be conducted in an e-learning format, within a virtual classroom environment, with particular emphasis on asynchronous forms of communication.

Each student’s individual performance and engagement with the presentation and discussion of course content will be duly taken into account, in accordance with the criteria outlined in the Learning Agreement for this course unit.

Students must have access to a computer with an internet connection and a valid email address.

This course unit is taught in Portuguese.